Kolkata Knight Riders released Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad after being directed by the BCCI, citing growing concerns over issues involving religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Mustafizur was bought by KKR for INR 9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction but was released on January 3 without playing a single match for the franchise.
In an official statement, KKR said the release was carried out after consultations and as per IPL regulations, adding that the franchise will be allowed to sign a replacement player.
Reacting to the development, the Bangladeshi pacer said, “What else can you do if you are dropped?”, reflecting his disappointment over the decision.
The 30-year-old needed just 12 more IPL matches to surpass Shakib Al Hasan as Bangladesh’s most capped player in IPL history.
Mustafizur has been in excellent form, taking 15 wickets in eight matches in ILT20 2025-26 and continuing his momentum in the BPL with Rangpur Riders.